In an unassuming factory outside Boston, a centuries-old secret continues to ring out. The Avedis Zildjian Company, manufacturer of world-renowned cymbals, has been crafting their signature percussion instruments using a closely guarded process that dates back to 1623.
From their headquarters in Norwell, Massachusetts, Zildjian produces over a million cymbals annually, supplying musicians across all genres - from classical orchestras to rock bands. Yet despite this massive output, the company maintains an air of mystery, particularly around their proprietary metal alloy formula.
The story begins in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) when Avedis I, attempting to create gold, accidentally discovered a unique combination of copper and tin that produced an exceptional resonant sound. This discovery caught the attention of the Ottoman sultan, who granted Avedis permission to establish his business in 1623 and bestowed upon him the name "Zildjian," meaning cymbal maker.
The company's journey to America began in 1909 when Avedis III immigrated from Turkey, eventually settling the business in Massachusetts. The British Invasion of the 1960s, particularly Ringo Starr's appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, sparked unprecedented demand for Zildjian cymbals.
Today, the company remains family-owned, led by sisters Craigie and Debbie Zildjian - the first women to inherit the business in its 400-year history. Craigie serves as president and board chair, while Debbie oversees the secretive alloy process, passed down through 13 generations.
The manufacturing process combines modern efficiency with traditional craftsmanship. Each cymbal passes through multiple stages - casting, rolling, hammering, and buffing - requiring at least 15 people to complete. Before receiving the "Zildjian kiss" stamp of approval, every cymbal undergoes a rigorous sound test by trained ears.
Grammy Award-winning jazz drummer Terri Lyne Carrington, a longtime Zildjian artist, describes the cymbals as integral to a musician's identity: "Your cymbals are your signature. Whenever you play, you're generally recognized by your cymbal sound."
While embracing innovation, including their recent venture into electronic drum kits, Zildjian maintains its commitment to acoustic excellence. As Debbie Zildjian affirms, the company will continue to evolve while keeping their four-century-old formula under lock and key.